Locked On Indians

The Guardians got Steven Kwan back from the injured list and Jose Ramirez was a single short of the cycle on his way to winning MVP of the Ohio Cup vs. the Reds in 2024. Today's episode looks at the impactful return of Kwan and if the decision to option Myles Straw means anything about his potential spot on the postseason roster. We also discuss the Guardians pitching plans for the playoffs, using Joey Cantillo and Gavin Williams behind openers this weekend and not allowing Tanner Bibee to face the Astros this weekend and what that could mean for their playoff strategy. The episode also of course looks at the Guardians attempt at a bullpen no-hitter vs. the Reds and the 43 years since the franchise has thrown a no-hitter. The show wraps up by talking about the Guardians prospects who will play in the Arizona Fall League starting in two weeks, including Chase DeLauter. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Booking.comThe right stay can make you a fan of any US city. Even your baseball rivals. Book today on Bo

The Guardians pulled away from the Reds late to clinch a first round by in the AL playoffs all the way to the ALDS....and the ever important Ohio Cup. Today's show delves into the positive signs the Guardians are showing offensively in September and how it propelled them to clinch the first round bye. We get into why in the debate of rest vs. rust, the bye makes Cleveland more dangerous in the playoffs and why it was absolutely necessary for them to make a run. The show also dives into what the Guardians should do this weekend when Houston, who they may potentially play in the ALDS, comes to down to finish the regular season. We finish the show by talking about Chase DeLauter's return off the injured list in Columbus and Doug Nikhazy's sparking performance in the International League championship series.    0:54 Guardians' Playoff Journey21:58 Cleveland's Strategic Use of Rested Bullpen25:18 Roster Decisions and Player Call-Ups36:41 Postseason Roster Decisions38:58 Doug Nikhazy's Transformation Support Us By

With the Guardians off on Monday, today's episode looks back at our 2024 Cleveland Guardians prospect draft. We take a look at some of our best and worst prospect picks and look at some of the surprising names we didn't even take, including Angel Genao, Cade Smith, and Austin Peterson. We discuss how the farm system emerged much stronger in the second half and how there is more pitching depth now, but there is a big gap on where the strength of the Guardians pitching prospects currently sits and why most of the farm system strength is at the lower levels.   3:13 Kyle Manzardo's Impact on the Guardians8:00 Ralphy Velazquez's Position Shift and Performance18:40 Cooper Ingle's Development Journey20:48 Ryan Webb's Pitching Potential35:04 DeLuca's Comeback and Potential Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Booking.comThe right stay can make you a fan of any US city. Even your baseball rivals. Book today on Booking.com – the official accommodation partner of major league baseball. Booking dot come, Booking dot YE

Cleveland Guardians clinched the AL Central division title over the weekend despite losing two of three in St. Louis. Today's episode looks back at what changed for the Guardians from a year ago to now, including Terry Francona's retirement, hiring Stephen Vogt, and other decisions made by the front office and the coaching staff. The show also explores the Guardians turnaround from August 28 to now, after they were tied with the Royals for the AL Central lead at the end of games on August 27. Can the Guardians' impressive bullpen and standout performances from Lane Thomas propel them further in the playoffs? Explore the key factors behind the Guardians' success, including contributions from Matthew Boyd and Kyle Manzardo, and the strategic management of first-year manager Stephen Vogt. The episode also covers upcoming roster moves, with Steven Kwan's anticipated return and Alex Cobb's uncertain status.   We also debate Vogt's candidacy for AL Manager of the Year against Kansas City's Matt Quatraro and how muc

The Cleveland Guardians have clinched a playoff spot after a walkoff win over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday.Today's show discusses why it's a feat worth celebrating despite not yet securing the division title.We also get into Joey Cantillo's recent emergence with his simplified pitch mix, and why the Guardians need to have a plan to use him on the playoff roster.Also in today's show:The Guardians' strategic use of their bullpen, aided by the playoff schedule's off days, could be a game-changer.Meanwhile, the success of the Guardians' minor league teams, including Lake County's championship win and Akron's playoff win underscores the importance of fostering a winning culture.Is Kyle Manzardo the hot hand the Guardians can ride at the top of the order in the playoffs?Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Arena ClubWhether you’re buying, selling, trading, or displaying—Arena Club is the card-collecting platform you have to check out. Right now, you can get 10% off your first Slab Pack or card purchase by going

A fun, wet, sticky night for Cleveland baseball all around. The Guardians got a walkoff win against the Twins and an ensuing Gatorade bath, and are now four steps closer to their own champagne shower with the magic number down to four. Today's Locked On Guardians looks at the importance of Josh Naylor getting hot at the plate for Cleveland and what else we want to see from the Guardians before October. The show also gets into the top prospects and performances for the Lake County Captains as they claimed the Midwest League Championship on Sept. 18.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Arena ClubWhether you’re buying, selling, trading, or displaying—Arena Club is the card-collecting platform you have to check out. Right now, you can get 10% off your first Slab Pack or card purchase by going to ArenaClub.com/lockedonmlb and use code lockedonmlb. RobinhoodRobinhood Gold provides the privileges of a high net worth for any net worth. These generous benefits are now available for only $5/month. The new gold sta

Cleveland Guardians Face Tough Loss and Record-Breaking Moments The Cleveland Guardians suffered a disappointing defeat against the Minnesota Twins, sparking debate over managerial choices, including the decision to pull Kyle Manzardo for Myles Straw as a pinch runner. Meanwhile, Emmanuel Clase continues to make headlines, tying Jose Mesa for the most saves in a season for Cleveland and potentially leading MLB in saves for the third consecutive year. This episode dives into the Guardians' strategic decisions, the temporary return of Myles Straw as an outfield backup, and the promising prospects in the minor league playoffs, such as Matt Wilkinson and Angel Genao. Join us for an engaging exploration of the Cleveland Guardians' current challenges and future prospects. Don't miss out on these unique insights and discussions! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Arena ClubWhether you’re buying, selling, trading, or displaying—Arena Club is the card-collecting platform you have to check out. Right now, you can g

 The Guardians got a lead to their bullpen eventually, squeaking out a win over the Twins to inch another game closer to clinching a playoff spot and the division title. Today's show covers how the Guardians bullpen somehow proved even better than usual by covering 6 1/3 innings in the win over the Twins without usual stalwarts Cade Smith, Tim Herrin, and Hunter Gaddis. We discuss Andrew Walters making the bullpen more dangerous and Eli Morgan being an unsung hero. We also discuss Kyle Manzardo's skill set, once he gets more experience, being the right fit for the Guardians lineup after his heroics in the win. The show gets into minor league leftovers from Monday on George Valera's unfortunate injury and what his future looks like in Cleveland in 2025, as well as looking at Austin Peterson's big season in Akron and the RubberDucks and Captains playoff games on Sept. 17. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Arena ClubWhether you’re buying, selling, trading, or displaying—Arena Club is the card-collecting pla

The Guardians gave the bullpen enough offense to split a series with the Rays.   On today's shows, we ask how much offense and from how the Cleveland Guardians need for their bullpen to carry them through the playoffs?   We discuss Cade Smith closing in on a personal goal and how he's allowed Emmanuel Clase, Tim Herrin, and Hunter Gaddis are delivering standout performances, potentially marking this as the best bullpen in Cleveland's history. Meanwhile, Joey Cantillo's strong start raises questions about his role in the postseason roster. The episode also explores Steven Kwan's back issues and their impact on his performance, alongside a strategic discussion on lineup construction and the offensive players needed for playoff success. Minor league updates and injuries are briefly touched upon, with more details promised in future discussions. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Arena ClubWhether you’re buying, selling, trading, or displaying—Arena Club is the card-collecting platform you have to check out.

Andrew Walters MLB Debut Amid Guardians' Challenges The Cleveland Guardians have called up top pitching prospect Andrew Walters, marking his MLB debut with a promising inning on the mound. How will Walters' addition impact the Guardians' bullpen strategy? In a tough matchup, the Guardians fell to the Tampa Bay Rays 5-2, with Gavin Williams' start and the team's offensive struggles under the spotlight. Meanwhile, the Lake County Captains, the Guardians' minor league affiliate, celebrated a playoff victory, showcasing standout performances from rising prospects. Adding to the intrigue, the episode touches on the unusual case of Twins draft pick Derek Bender, who was released amid allegations of tipping pitches. The discussion also explores potential changes to the Guardians' 40-man roster as the offseason approaches. Tune in to discover the implications of these developments and gain insider insights into the Guardians' evolving strategy. For your next listen, check out the Locked On MLB podcast. Prepare for th

The Guardians finished off a three-city, nine-game, 10-day road trip at 6-3 and their magic number to clinch the AL Central is down to 12.   Today's episode looks at how the Guardians emerged from this stress through some challenges of injuries, slumps, and the lack of off days. We look at Steven Kwan's performance in the White Sox series, if he is showing signs of a much-needed turnaround and how much does the Guardians offense relies on Kwan as its engine? We also get into Triston McKenzie's latest quasi-relief appearance in Triple-A and if there is any possibility of him as an option as a reliever down the stretch or in the postseason. Finally, today's show looks ahead to the Tampa Bay series, which won't be as easy as their record suggests, and the pitching matchups with Alex Cobb out once again with the lingering blister issue. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event

The Guardians shutout the White Sox to push their magic number to 14, though they couldn't escape without incident again, as Ben Lively left the game after two innings due to a thigh contusion from a line drive. Today's episode mostly looks at Lane Thomas' emergence into a reliable offensive contributor finally.   We also discuss Sam Hentges' shoulder surgery and its implications for his future and the next season, the current ideal lineup construction, and the uncertainty surrounding the Guardians' TV deal. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! TonaITonal is the world's smartest and most effective strength training system that helps get you stronger. Right now, Tonal is offering our listeners $200 off your Tonal purchase with promo code LOCKEDONMLB. That’s Tonal.com, and

Joey Cantillo took a perfect game into the seventh inning against the White Sox in a game the Guardians normally would have hoped he never had to start.   Today's show dives into what Cantillo, the Guardians, and the rest of their roster can prove by beating up on the lowly White Sox even though they should be expected to win. We discuss some of the lineup juggling in this game, what didn't manage to go right for the Guardians despite the win, if there are indeed any more roster tweaks to come in September/October for Cleveland at this point. This episode also gets heavily into the minors, and why there is little hope to see George Valera, Andrew Walters or anyone else in the majors at this point. We also discuss which Guardians prospects might play in the Arizona Fall League in 2024 and why as part of leftovers from Minor League Monday.   Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.co

The Guardians got their series with the Dodgers off to a strong start thanks to Matthew Boyd's dominant performance. Things went off the rails after that. Today's show discusses if our expectations for the series changed after the win in the first game, if Gavin Williams' inconsistency makes us think a postseason bullpen role continues to make sense, why Joey Cantillo is starting Monday, and why Scott Barlow was designated for assignment. We also get into why Andrew Walters wasn't called up after letting go of Barlow and what needs to happen for him to get called up, if he does at all. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! TonaITonal is the world's smartest and most effective strength training system that helps get you stronger. Right now, Tonal is offering our listeners

Despite the Guardians loss in KC in the finale on Wednesday, September 4, the rest of the AL scoreboard went in their favor with the Twins, Astros, Orioles, and Yankees all losing. Today's show quickly looks at what went wrong in the finale loss but focuses on the Guardians ideal playoff pitching rotation and plan. Which of the Guardians starters would be the ideal bullpen candidate and how would we line them up in a series? We also look deeper into the data on Steven Kwan to find the source of the struggles and what needs to be done to turn him around soon. At the end of the show, we set expectations for the series in LA against the Dodgers.   Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicksGo to https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB and use code lockedonmlb to

A week ago, the AL Central was tied. A week later, the Royals are now in third place and the Guardians magic number to clinch the division is 20 with 23 games to play. Today's show talks about the Guardians finally kicking things into gear at the right time after weeks of waiting for them to find the right direction again. We also get into how Tanner Bibee showed growth and found another gear in a big start vs the Royals. Also discussed is Brayan Rocchio's big night for the Guardians and how the offense looked like the version from the first two months of the season. We get into how Kyle Manzardo has lengthened this lineup and also some math about what it will take for the Guardians to finish off clinching the AL Central the rest of the way. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sp

The Guardians got another critical series with the Royals off on the right foot. Today's show looks at the importance of the players that stepped up to win this game are the one that matter a lot going forward - Gavin Williams, Lane Thomas, and Josh Naylor. We also take a look at one player who is still struggling that the Guardians really need to get going. And we discuss the players that were not part of September callups, including George Valera, Andrew Walters, and Franco Aleman, and why they haven't been called up yet and if they still might. We also talk about Ralphy Velazquez's future position as well. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicksGo to https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB and use code lockedonmlb to win $50 instantly when you play $5.

The Guardians 'reinforcements' came up big on Sunday to help win 2/3 from the Pirates. On today's Locked On Guardians, we discuss the timing and fit of Kyle Manzardo on this roster and the difference the Guardians hope he makes. We also discuss Alex Cobb's flirtation with history coming off the injured list, Emmanuel Clase's quick ascent into club history record books. We also debate if the Guardians are ready to finally get on a run to help put some distance between themselves and the Royals and Twins again to clinch the AL Central division title. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicksGo to https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB and use code lockedonmlb to win $50 instantly when you play $5. You don't even need to win to receive your $50 bonus, it's gua

With September coming up this weekend, we look at who is on the table for the Guardians to callup to add as rosters expand to 28, including one hot bat this week for Columbus. And the rest of his episode is all of your mailbag questions. We address if the Guardians roster full of middle infield investments has been a success or failure, why certain prospects haven't been recalled amid all the offensive struggles, if Angel Martinez should have been given more time, what offensive adjustments the team needs to make, how their rotation stacks up against other contenders, and if there is an ideal team to face in the playoffs. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Liquid IVNo more thirsty summers when you indulge in hydration with Liquid I.V. Get 20% off your first order of Li

The Guardians salvaged the series with the Royals with a win in the finale, holding on to first place. Today's episode discusses if the Guardians can turn that into positive momentum back towards their first half success. We get into what made them good through the first 60% of the season vs. what has ailed them in the months since. Jeff brings up how many position player draft picks have been on the field consistently over the last 10 years. We also get into the psychology of slumps and streaks in sports and compare the Twins/Royals schedules the rest of the way vs. the Guardians. Locked On Guardians fans, come hang out for a listener meetup with Justin at the Lake County Captains playoff game on 9/12. Buy your tickets here https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/Lockedguardians2 and use promo code LOCKEDON to get 20% off! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Liquid IVNo more thirsty summers when you indulge in hydration with Liquid I.V. Get 20% off your first order of Liquid I.V. when you go to LIQUIDIV.COM and